Original Research
Tuesday, October 15, 2024
08:30 AM–10:00 AM
Abstract
Introduction:
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) prevalence is disproportionally higher in correctional facilities than the general population. Reducing the treatment duration from 12 weeks to 8 weeks would lower overall treatment costs, alleviate healthcare burden, and improve access to care for incarcerated individuals.
Research Question or Hypothesis:
In HCV patients treated with sofosbuvir/velpatasvir (SOF/VEL) ± ribavirin, does the viral load (VL) become undetectable at week 8 versus week 12?
Study Design:
IRB-approved, retrospective chart review.
Methods:
Eligible subjects included IDOC patients seen in the Liver Telemedicine Clinic between 6/28/2016 and 12/8/2023. During the 8-week and 12-week treatment periods, patients received either SOF/VEL alone or SOF/VEL+ ribavirin. A total of 329 patient charts were reviewed and data were collected, including patient demographics, VL, treatment duration, Fibroscan results, genotype, and BMI.
Results:
A review of 329 patient charts showed a predominantly male (89.2%) and White (62.3%) sample, with a median age of 49 (37-61). Of the 252 patients on the 12-week SOF/VEL ± ribavirin, SVR12 rates were 97.5% (77/79) for SOF/VEL and 98.8% (171/173) for SOF/VEL + ribavirin. In the 8-week group (n=77), 46.8% (36/77) received ribavirin, and 100% achieved SVR12 with or without ribavirin. The higher likelihood of achieving SVR in the 8-week group may be due to younger age, lower Fibroscan scores, a higher proportion of White patients, and earlier undetectable VL by week 2 suggesting rapid viral clearance.
Conclusion:
This retrospective chart review demonstrates that an 8-week SOF/VEL ± ribavirin treatment achieves SVR12 rates comparable to the 12-week regimen. The reduced treatment duration not only provides significant cost savings but also increases treatment completion rates, which is crucial for ensuring timely medical care within the correctional setting. These findings highlight the potential for improved health outcomes and more efficient use of resources in treating HCV among incarcerated individuals.
Presenting Author
Alex Dang PharmD CandidateUniversity of Illinois Chicago College of Pharmacy
Authors
Juliana Chan PharmD, FCCP, BCACP
University of Illinois at Chicago
Mandy Hellman PharmD Candidate
University of Illinois Chicago
Sean Martin PharmD Candidate
University of Illinois Chicago